Alvaro Arbeloa's Perspective on Mbappe & Bellingham's International Call-ups Amid Fitness Concerns
Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has addressed the ongoing debate surrounding Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham's international call-ups despite recent injury worries at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite concerns, Arbeloa is confident in their readiness for both club and country, highlighting the importance of top players representing their national teams.
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has dismissed concerns regarding Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham joining their national teams. Despite recent injury scares at the Santiago Bernabeu, the coach insists the superstar duo are ready for both club and country, thus he is happy for them to play over the upcoming international window.Real Madrid have seen their squad stretched thin recently, with Mbappe nursing a knee problem and Bellingham having hamstring issues. Despite these fitness worries, both players have been summoned by France and England respectively for the upcoming international window.The decision to allow the stars to travel has sparked debate in Madrid, particularly with a grueling domestic schedule ahead. However, Arbeloa remains unfazed, suggesting that the involvement of world-class players in international football is an inevitability that the club fully accepts.Speaking to the press, Arbeloa expressed total confidence in the fitness of his key men. "I think it’s phenomenal. Mbappe is going to play tomorrow [against Atletico Madrid], for sure. I see no problem with him going with his national team. If they call them up, it’s because they are very good," Arbeloa said.Arbeloa extended the same sentiment to Madrid’s English talisman. "It’s the same with Bellingham. He is available and will be there tomorrow. I’m looking forward to seeing him on the pitch. It’s normal for him to play with his country; he’s intelligent and knows what he’s doing. I can't pretend they won't go. I understand their national coaches."While Mbappe and Bellingham are cleared for action, the goalkeeping situation remains a concern following Thibaut Courtois's recent setback. Arbeloa confirmed that he will rely on Andriy Lunin, citing the inherent risks of the sport as a factor in his rotation policy."Every time a player steps onto the field, there is a risk," Arbeloa explained. "The best goalkeeper in history has been injured, but we have another great keeper who will show how good he is." He also heaped praise on veteran Antonio Rudiger, calling him a "mirror for young players" after his tireless work to return to fitness.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingMbappe and France are scheduled to face Brazil and Colombia during this international break, while Bellingham and England will face Uruguay and Japan. But before that, they'll face Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Sunday. Arbeloa's side currently sit second in the table, four points behind leaders Barcelona.
Arbeloa's Confidence in Star Players
Despite fitness concerns, Arbeloa remains optimistic about Mbappe and Bellingham's ability to perform for both Real Madrid and their respective national teams. He emphasizes that being called up is a testament to their skills and expects them to make significant contributions in upcoming matches.
Challenges in the Goalkeeping Department
With Courtois's recent setback, Arbeloa faces challenges in the goalkeeping department. However, he expresses faith in Lunin's abilities and highlights the unpredictable nature of injuries in football. Arbeloa also praises Rudiger's resilience, highlighting his role as a mentor to younger players in the squad.
Upcoming Fixtures and Prioritizing Performance
Mbappe and Bellingham are set to feature in international matches against tough opponents, following Real Madrid's crucial La Liga fixture against Atletico Madrid. Arbeloa stresses the importance of balancing club and international duties, acknowledging the risks involved while also prioritizing players' ambitions at their respective national teams.


